Long Sutton carpenter’s desirable residence: a shepherd’s hut

Shane Ingham has an unusual marketing tool for promoting his carpentry and joinery business.

It’s a shepherd’s hut he created from scratch, a desirable residence for any shepherd – or someone who wants a garden office, an extra room to their home or even fishing accommodation.

“The beauty of them is that because they are classed as a farm implement you can put them in places you can’t put a caravan,” said Shane, who has run S L Ingham Ltd, his traditional carpentry and joinery business, from Long Sutton for the past seven years.

The hut is on wheels, which means it can also be moved, originally so that it could be transported from field to field during lambing, explains Shane.

Unlike the original, Shane’s hut is fully lined and double glazed, so that it keeps cool in summer and warm in winter. His huts also come with a wood burner, or underfloor heating if preferred.

Shane says: “This is the first one I have made from scratch and I made it to display my workmanship and promote the business.”

It worked because it has resulted in Shane carrying out various restorations for clients, including to four shepherds’ huts.

Shane has built up knowledge and experience during 30 years as a carpenter and joiner and his skills have been put to good use in local restoration projects.

For instance, Shane was sub-contracted to work on Moulton Mill, designing, manufacturing and installing stairs, windows and doors during its refurbishment.

However, Shane also got involved in the mill workings, carrying out repairs to the floors and hoppers and to the boarding surrounding the millstones.

He says: “It was a very pleasing job to do. I am satisfied now it’s got its sails on.”

He has worked on other heritage projects, such as Cowbit rectory, where he repaired the sash windows and external doors, on historic farmhouses in the area and on Monks House, reputed to be the oldest house in Spalding, says Shane.

“I gained my skills from experience,” he said. “Being a bench joiner you obtain the insights of making box sash windows or a spiral staircase. With years of experience you become more knowledgeable about doing repairs.”

Shane’s huts – the one shown costs £7,000 – are also popular with glampers, or people who prefer luxury camping.